Fire crews at the Fenn Bell pub in St Mary Hoo

by Nicola Jordan

The cause of an explosion that ripped through a busy pub is now being investigated by health and safety officers.

Four members of the same family were airlifted to a London hospital after the blast at The Fenn Bell Inn at St Mary Hoo, on the Hoo Peninsula on Sunday lunchtime.

Police and Kent Fire and Rescue Service officers have spent the last two days sifting through the wreckage at the 17th century pub, on the Ratcliffe Way.

It is believed a log burner attached to a boiler in the main bar exploded, sparking a small fire.

The air ambulance and three crews from Strood and Thames-side stations attended the pub at about 1.30pm.

The family, two boys aged five and nine and their parents, were taken to King's College Hospital. Their injuries were not thought to be life-threatening.

Officers from Medway Council, who have made the building safe, are now leading the inquiry.

George Barnes, from Shepherd Neame brewery that owns the pub, said "Our thoughts are with those who have been injured.

"We are supporting the licensee Jackie Ballard, and our team has been on site to help liaise with the various authorities."